Player ratings: Manchester United 3-2 Newcastle United

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Date: October 06, 2018

David de Gea 6 – Could have possibly done better for Newcastle’s second but made a number of key interventions to prevent Newcastle from adding to their advantage.

Ashley Young 4 – His inclusion ahead of Diogo Dalot was puzzling and his performance confirmed it as the wrong decision. Completely rolled over for both of Newcastle’s goals – further evidence that he isn’t a full-back.

Chris Smalling 5 – Found himself outpaced and outsmarted by Newcastle throughout the first half, producing unnecessary errors on the ball.

Eric Bailly N/A – Hooked off after 15 minutes for Juan Mata as part of a drastic change made by Jose Mourinho in response to one of the worst 10 minute defensive spells at home from United in recent years. Will do nothing to help his confidence.

Luke Shaw 6 – Not his best performance in a United shirt but at the very least displayed an element of fearlessness and a desire to get forward. Did well to keep DeAndre Yedlin at bay on his side.

Nemanja Matic 4 – Jose Mourinho’s decision to play the Serb in four successive games made no sense. Looked miles off the pace on and off the ball in midfield once again. Improved at centre-back.

Scott McTominay 4 – A terrible half for the youngster but not for the want of trying. Moved back to central defence -after 15 minutes and looked all over the place. Should not have been there in the first place. If anything, you felt sorry for him. Hooked off at half time.

Paul Pogba 7 – Supporters could not believe the sight of Pogba moving into a back three – no, really – but the Frenchman’s application and desire to run the game was impressive. Central to a fantastic second half comeback.

Marcus Rashford 5 – Offered plenty of desire and running power up the pitch but his close control was poor and should have done better with a couple of headers in good positions.

Anthony Martial 6 – Started poorly but his link-up play notably improved in the second period. Scored a great goal following a clever one-two with Pogba.

Romelu Lukaku 5 – Once again drew a blank in front of goal. Worked hard throughout, supplying an excellent cross for Rashford in the first half, but his lack of potency in the box is a concern.

Substitutes

Juan Mata 6 – Started slowly but helped move United along as they radically improved in the second half.

Marouane Fellaini 6 – Came on at half time and provided an air of experience and physicality. Brought United up the pitch.

Alexis Sanchez 7 – It had to be him. Largely ineffective when he came on but, at a time when he needed it more than most, scored a vital winning goal.